When looking for a weekend getaway along the California Coast, the place that will top your list is Santa Barbara; The quaint little coastal town known for its Spanish architecture, pristine beaches and tons of fine dine options.
Santa Barbara is located just an hour away from Los Angeles on PCH(Pacific Coast Highway) which makes it a popular spot for weekend getaway from Southern California and a great stop along your road trip when driving from Northern California. The warmer temperature and surrounding wine regions lures in many tourists from across the state and is probably one of the main reasons why we keep going back. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway or a fun escape for the whole family, this coastal gem never fails to impress. So I wanted to share our guide to all the best things to do in Santa Barbara, California, one of the most beautiful beach destinations in the USA
Santa Barbara – 3 Day itinerary
Here’s a quick-run down of a 3 day itinerary to Santa Barbara and a neighboring town called Solvang.
Day 1: Downtown Santa Barbara, shopping and galleries, Santa Barabara County Courthouse
Day 2: Beach day + water activities, Wine tasting tour
Day 3: Solvang – bakeries and town walk, Ostrichland USA
Map of things to do in Santa Barbara
Where to stay in Santa Barbara?
Santa Barbara has a wide array of stay options from cute Airbnbs to luxury houses. We wanted to stay close the beach and the downtown action so we stayed at the Harbor View Inn.
Its a stunning hotel with spacious rooms overlooking the ocean. The resort style hotel offers some of the best of SB, from the beautiful coastline to the charming shops and restaurants along State Street. You can also enjoy a romantic sunset from your oceanfront balcony or unwind by the pool amid blooming colors and tropical palm trees.
If you are looking to splurge and spend a little more money, these were a few on my list -> El Encanto, Four Seasons Biltmore, Pali House, Hotel Californian, Rosewood Miramar Beach.
Nestled on a pristine coastline, Rosewood Miramar Beach is a haven of tranquility and sophistication. Every corner of this luxurious retreat seems tailor-made for Instagram-worthy moments. So definitely check that out, when you plan to visit.
20+ fun things to do in Santa Barbara
From lounging on a beach to fun water activities, dining at fine dine restaurants to checking out the local food spots along Paseo Neuvo, urban wine tasting tour to exploring the botanical gardens, there’s something for everyone. So here are my top picks for the 20 best things to do in Santa Barbara!
1. Ride bikes along the coastline
Santa Barbara is a perfect place for a bike ride – you can ride your bike along palm trees line Cabrillo Boulevard while enjoying views of the ocean and Santa Ynez Mountains or get some city views while riding from Stearn’s Wharf to Old Mission Santa Barbara.
There are many bike rental shops around town with everything from beach cruisers to mountain bikes. You can rent bikes from Wheel Fun Rentals, which is conveniently located near Stearns Wharf or Santa Barbara BCycle.
2. Hit the beach
Santa Barbara is a paradise of beaches offering a wide array of views and experiences. And a trip to the beach is a must, when you visit. Lined with palm trees and wedged between the harbor and Stearn’s Wharf is West Beach, a popular spot for kayaking, sunbathing, swimming and picnics.
Located in the chic and laid-back village of Montecito, Butterfly beach is one of the local’s favorite for picturesque sunrises and sunsets. A great spot for enjoying a day picnic or bring our your paddleboard for light surfing. Keep your eyes peeled and you might even see a star or two – Montecito is home to several celebs.
One of the most family-friendly beaches in Santa Barbara is Arroyo Burro Beach Park (or Hendry’s as it’s locally known). The beach runs along picturesque bluffs and offers tons of spots for family picnic, swimming, surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, and more. It’s dog-friendly too.
3. Go shopping at Paseo Neuvo
If you fancy a bit of shopping, head over to Paseo Neuvo located in the heart of SB downtown. The open-air mall features many fountains, historic painted-tile floors, luxury stores and creative boutiques. You could easily spend a full day here just exploring the shops, restaurants, and cafés.
4. Visit the Old Mission Santa Barbara
Take a walk down history at one of Santa Barbara’s most iconic sites, Old Mission Santa Barbara. Grand bell towers, lush gardens and views of the San Ynez mountains and Pacific Ocean, the Mission is one of the city’s most picturesque landmarks and definitely worth a visit when in Santa Barbara.
This beautiful church has served as a spiritual center ever since its construction in 1786 by the Spanish and continues to host Catholic services even today. Outside of the sanctuary, you’ll find a variety of interpretive sights to learn more about the rich history around the mission itself.
You can do a self-guided tour from 9am-4:15pm. After the tour, you can walk across the street to the A.C. Postel Memorial Rose Garden, a wonderland of more than 1,500 rose plants, blooming to its full glory in spring. Take your time to admire the graceful architecture while exploring the rose garden and olive grove.
5. Get on a sunset cruise
Hands down, one of the best things to do in Santa Barbara is to experience the city by sea. The unparalleled view of the coastline with tall palm trees at sunset paints the best picture of Santa Barbara.
There are tons of boat rides you can hop on along the Santa Barbara piers at a fairly decent price tag. Sip on delicious cocktails and taste some evening aperitifs as you Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing golden hour on the water.
Book your Sunset Cruise experience here.
6. Go whale watching
The Santa Barbara Channel is one of California’s best places for whale watching. The best time to go whale watching is between November and April. This is when the Pacific grey whales migrate through the area heading south to Baja, Mexico.
You can check out these companies for whale watching tours : Condor Express, Captain Jacks and Santa Barbara Sailing Company. You can see some humpback whales and Blue Whales in the area. Keep an eye out for dolphins too, they love swimming alongside your boat and are a real treat to see.
7. Visit the Santa Barbara Zoo
If you are looking for some fun activities for the kids in SB, join the flock. The Santa Barbara Zoo is located on over 30 acres land, close to the ocean and is home to approximately 500 animals, including kangaroos, gorillas, leopards, monkeys, capybara, and more.
You can hop on the Zoo train and meet all the animals, or try one of their unique experiences like brushing the goat or feeding the giraffes.
8. Take an Urban Wine Tasting Tour
Yes the first of its kind: Urban Wine Tasting Tour – A walking trail covering 4 neighborhoods with over 20 wineries where you get to taste some of the best wines in the valley. Each offering a unique ambiance, a diverse experience and some of the best of central coast wines.
Our favorites were:
Deep Sea tasting Room the tasting room offers breathtaking 360° views of the Pacific Ocean, Channel Islands, and Riviera with an outdoor tasting deck on Stearns Wharf making it the most unique wine tasting experience.
Melwell Winery – Located in Funk Zone known for it’s 100% estate grown, handmade Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Syrah
Margerum Wine Company – Located at Santa Barbara’s waterfront at Hotel Californian in the Funk Zone, it has the most beautiful tasting room + patio paired with Gourmet and savory eats from their kitchen.
Grassini Family Vineyards – Enjoy some handcrafted Bordeaux style wines in front of the fireplace or lounging on the patio of in their downtown tasting room.
Another option is to drive to The Santa Ynez Valley which is only about 45 minutes outside the city and offers all the rolling hills, gourmet food and charming country views that you’d expect from a premium winery.
9. Catch the sunset from Sterns Wharf or go kayaking
Stearns Wharf is one of Santa Barbara’s most iconic landmarks for sunset photography or trust me you don’t want to miss this. I’m talking about gorgeous hues or oranges and gold against the mountains and plan trees lined backdrop. Walk down the pier for 360 degrees views of the ocean and coastline.
You can capture stunning silhouettes or just some memorable golden hour photos with your family.
10. Dine at one of the many acclaimed restaurants
The culinary scene is Santa Barbara has improved a lot over the years – from fresh seafood to trendy bars you can find tons of food & drink options in downtown and Funk Zone areas.
A few popular ones worth dining in are:
- Sanata Barbara Public Market
- Bouchon Santa Barbara
- Loquita
- Barbareno
- Convivo Restaurant & Bar
- Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach
- The Lark
11. Take the kids to MOXI
Another popular spot for family activities with the kids MOXI – an innovative hands-on science museum. dedicated to igniting learning through interactive experiences and creativity. You can do things like build your own race car and send it down the test tracks, play a giant guitar, enjoy breathtaking views from the sky garden, or design something with the the 3D printer. It’s suitable for all ages and I’d highly recommend this place if you’re traveling with kids.
12. Go to the Santa Barbara County Courthouse
One of the quintessential thing to do when in SB is to visit the Santa Barbara County Courthouse. It is one of the most beautiful public buildings, exemplifying the Spanish Colonial Revival architecture style with pam trees, sunken gardens, elegant arches and hand painted murals which highlights Santa Barbara’s rich past and roots in Chumash, Spanish, Mexican and immigrant cultures.
Head to the top of the clock tower to enjoy 360-degree views of the Santa Barbara skyline from atop. The views will not disappoint you. While you make your way up, checkout the Clock gallery and the Mural Room. Gorgeous details are everywhere, including the ceiling and the walls.
13. Go hiking
Combining the mountains and the sea, Santa Barbara creates a postcard-perfect backdrop for your next hiking adventure. You’ll find everything from easy, flat paths through gardens to difficult climbs that reach towering heights over the Pacific.
A popular hike is to Inspiration Point, which has spectacular views of the coastline. The round trip is 3.5 miles, starting at Tunnel Trail, or you can take the longer route from Jesusita Trail.
If you’re looking for a moderate hike that ends with a refreshing splash, Seven Falls is your spot. The trail is 3.4 mile round trip, lightly paved for a part and then winds around the trees to lead to a stunning pool. Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit, the pools make for a great photo-op or a swim.
For a bit of a workout, you can head to Rattlesnake trail – a 4.5-mile round trip hike, adjacent to Skofield park which leads to a gorgeous scenery the canyon has to offer. This is also perfect for a family hike.
14. Get a snap at the Chromatic Gate
You cannot miss the most Instagrammable spot of Santa Barbara: The Chromatic Gate. A rainbow gate sculpture made of 6 colors with the mountains in the background and ocean views on the other, offers some of the best photo opportunities in the town.
Another good Instagram spot is the tiled stairs in the Paseo Nuevo shopping center.
15. Explore the Botanic Gardens
Visit the impressive Santa Barbara Botanic Gardens and get ready to be swooned by nature. The 78-acre garden has five miles of walking trails and so you can venture from a towering coastal redwood forest to an inland cacti-filled desert in just one hike. The botanic gardens showcases about 1000 species of plants, many of which are native to California. And don’t miss the authentic Japanese tea house.
16. Visit Lotusland
Tucked away in the beautiful hillside of Montecito, a 37-acre botanic treasure is awaiting you – Lotusland! The estate is owned by the late Ganna Walska, an opera singer and socialite and is home to 25 distinctly designed gardens, all with different themes, and filled with all sorts of rare and exotic plant species.
It is open to public during from February through October with options of Docent-led tour and self guided tour. I highly recommend getting a reservation before your visit.
17. Explore the trendy Funk Zone and all its street art
This area of Santa Barbara is a great place to go for food and drinks. With an abundance of cafes, breweries, bars, and restaurants to choose from you get a chance feel like a university student again, as it is one of the favorite spots among the college crowd.
There is also tons of galleries, creative boutiques, street art and murals on the walls, that you can explore in the Funk Zone by just talking a walking tour.
18. Soak up the California surf life
Santa Barbara has some of the best surfing in California – Whether you’re learning to surf or want to ride some of the best breaks on the west coast, Santa Barbara is the ideal wave-lover’s base camp with mild tides and moderate ocean temperatures. You can rent surfing gears at Paddle Sports Center and hit the Rincon Point or Campus Point. If you are a beginner Leadbetter Point is your best spot. You can also test your balance on the long boards at beginner-friendly spots like Butterfly Beach and West Beach.
19. Horseback riding
Horseback riding in Santa Barbara is one of the best ways to enjoy the area’s diverse landscape. Saddle up, get off the beaten path, explore the beautiful beaches and ride along Santa Barbara’s iconic coastline at sunset. From leisure to luxury, this experience will be etched in your hearts for a long time.
Captain Jack’s Santa Barbara Tours and Los Padres Outfitters offer some of the best horseback riding options.
20. Go to a concert in Santa Barbara Bowl
Nestled in the foothills of Santa Barbara, The Santa Barbara Bowl is one of most iconic outdoor music venues and definitely worth attending a concert in. The outdoor concert venue seats up to 4,562, so you’re guaranteed a great view no matter which section you’re dancing in.
Check the concert calender and make sure to grab a ticket before you travel.
Where to eat in Santa Barbara ?
Santa Barbara offers a diverse culinary experience, which has expanded over the years featuring some of the best coastal cuisine with wine parings and cocktails. Our favorites which are worth a visit are:
Bouchon Santa Barbara
Bouchon is a trendy French eatery that serves farm-fresh dishes with a California twist. Its a perfect spot for a romantic date night paired with vintage wines and classic French flavors.
Favorite Thing(s) to Order: Warm Pecan & Goat Cheese Tart, Chargrilled rack of Lamb, Pan seared Pacific Fish
Loquita
Hands down my favorite spot in Santa Barbara and many will agree – This is perhaps the most popular restaurant in town and serves up Spanish tapas and innovative craft cocktails.
The patio is gorgeous, which beacons you for a fun brunch or if you visit in the night, the electic ambiance with cinema scenes projected on the walls will definitely captivate you.
Favorite Thing(s) to Order: Pon Con Tomate, Gambas Al Ajillo, Chorizo y Pollo Paella
Barbareño
Barbareño is a must try place for California cuisine. They have a long wine list and offer family style shareable plates. Executive Chef Julian Martinez and Chef de Cuisine Preston Knox work to create a menu that vividly expresses the California Coast.
Favorite Thing(s) to Order: Ricotta Dumplings, Santa Maria tri-tip BBQ, Sage Smoked Pork Chops
Sandbar
This is a popular Mexican restaurant near donwtown ares. If it’s a nice day, I would try to sit outside and people watch. It’s close to the Paseo Neuvo, so you can head there to cool off with some Margs after all your shopping. They are delicious!
Favorite Thing(s) to Order:Wicked Buffalo Wings, Arroz Con Pollo Ranchero, El Supreme Burrito
Boathouse at the Hendry’s Beach
When it comes to brunch on the beach, no one does it better than Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach. Enjoy a delicious seafood brunch with some of the best views. It’s also a popular dinner spot at sunset. You have to try some fresh catch from the menu or dine from their raw bar – Its really good.
Favorite Thing(s) to Order: Lobster & Truffle Mac & Cheese, Boathouse Seafood Pasta, Macadamia Crusted Halibut
Bluewater Grill
If the weather is perfect and you want to watch the sunset, this is the place for you. This restaurant has the one of the best atmospheres in all of Santa Barbara. Be sure to make a reservation if you want to dine here for dinner. Everything on the menu is delicious and the seafood is extremely fresh.
Favorite Thing(s) to Order: France’s Bouillabaisse, Lemon Pepper Mahi Mahi, Togarashi Spiced Ahi Tuna
Helena Avenue Bakery
A homestyle artisan bakery with a vibrant patio garden. Stop by for handmade seasonal pastries and a wide variety of gourmet breakfast and lunch items made to order.
Favorite Thing(s) to Order: Wildflower Honey Ricotta on Sourdough Toast, Chef Nico’s Breakfast Taco, Blueberry Lemon Scone
Santa Barbara Public Market
If you’re craving a variety of different cuisines, head to the SB Public Market. You can get everything from tacos to noodles to pizza, making this a great option for groups with different tastes.
Oku Restaurant
Treat yourself to California-Asian food + sushi at Santa Barbara’s premier waterfront restaurant, paired with unobstructed ocean views. Quick tip: get a table at their roof terrace for the best views.
Favorite Thing(s) to Order: Pink Cadillac, Lava Roll, Crouching Tiger and Ramen Yakisoba
Santa Barbara is one of the prettiest city along the California coast And in my opinion a wonderful place for a vacation with the perfect blend of activities that will suit just about anyone.
From the picturesque views from the Santa Ynez Mountains to the amazing wine tasting opportunities, shopping, hiking, history and culture, there’s so much to do, you’ll want to come back. So for the next time, save this blog post to try the activities that you probably missed in the past.
ourcrossings says
Your photos are so beautiful and so is Santa Barbara with its colourful sunsets. Thanks for sharing, and have a wonderful day 🙂 Aiva xx